Relatively Speaking
Fan Reviews
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PFPB
"Three One-Act Comedies" a totally misleading title. First one totally unfocused (had one funny joke, about the waiter), second a one-note exercise, a poor thing being victimized and unable to stand up for herself, the victimizer was funny for the first ten minutes, then an irritant. The Woody Allen was an actual comedy, thank God. We went with friends, and were embarrassed to have caused them to pay $127 a ticket for these two downers plus the (30? 40?) minute relief. The Brooks Atkinson is the most uncomfortable theater I've ever been in. I have a (mended) broken hip, and sitting in those cramped conditions was an agony -- until the last play, which took my mind off them.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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DJB1957
Borscht Belt humor! Felt like I was in the Catskills in the 1970's, watching three bad acts. Couldn't WAIT for it to be over. Expected SO much more from Allen, Coen and Mays!!! Don't even get the TDF tickets. Not even worth half the price that I paid ($127 for each ticket!)
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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Anonymous
The first play was good The second was very good The third was not good
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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Jody11
I thought I'd be rolling in the aisles. I wasn't. Woody Allen's play was by far the best, but Ethan Coen's was too short and not terribly funny at all. Elaine May's play was well done and well-acted by Marlo Thomas and others, but lacked in the laughter department. I do not think it was worth the money.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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JonathanN
This is a really funny show. I was surprised by some of the negative reviews here. At the show I attended, the audience was laughing out loud during all 3 acts. All the actors were very good but Marlo Thomas, Danny Hoch and the actress that played his mother in the first act were fantastic. If you have a good sense of humor, you will enjoy this show.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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nebraskagrandma
Each of these short plays was hilarious---and very appropriate to our time. Seemingly not linked together, each was a comedy satire on our time and the audience loved them all. I found fun even when others did not.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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thsepian
An uninspiring theater event salvaged by Woody Allen-certainly not justifying the cost- it's not that all plays must be funny- but"serious" drama should leave you feeling something other than " did I really spend all this money on that?"
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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Sonny747
I found the first play by Eathen Coen enjoyable and then things went all wrong. The play by Elaine May was cute for awhile and Marlo Thomas was good enough at the beginning but making her a caricature left nowhere to go. What could have been true comic pathos was simply predictable. And don't get me started about the Woody Allen play. Very funny gags delivered poorly at best. Line readings were just plain wrong. Farce needs to be handled seriously but this was just sad. I'm surprised that there wasn't a rim shot following each speech. What a disappoinment
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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1677
Quite a disappointing show. High school quality. Woody Allen must have written his segment 25 years ago and it showed. I would be embarrased to have my name on the playbill.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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Foolish22
I was very bored with the whole play. Didn't care for the story lines for one and two - boring and dispassionate. Woody has always been a favorite of mine and his play was the only one that I laughed at but still thought it was disappointing. Would not recommend it to anyone. We were in the last row in the upper mezzanine and paid a discount price of $75 per ticket - waste of time and money.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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Cubs50
We thoroughly enjoyed "Honeymoon Motel'. Liked 'George is Dead'. 1st play was confusing.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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marialuisa500
I went with a friend who'd never been to Broadway before, and we found the plays entertaining, but the overall production underwhelming. Fortunately, the laugh factor increases as the performance goes on, peaking in the final piece, Woody Allen's "Honeymoon Motel." Worth seeing, but nothing to rave about.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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MBKoss
Three one acts by solid writers with very different styles and use of humor. Fun evening, even if not thought provoking. Better than staying at home and watching TV.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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BetFoo
Relatively Speaking was brilliantly written and directed! It ties in three acts that parallel around family dysfunction. It is humorously presented to the audience-it is so wrong, but sometimes so true! There is a luminous message that we can all take away with!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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mscal
The Coen play was OK. The May and Allen plays were very funny. It was a very enjoyable theatre experience.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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eslgal
All 3 were brilliantly written and superbly acted. I found the first two ( Ethan Coen's "Talking Cure" and Elaine May's "George is Dead") the most satisfying in terms of the characters' interactions, as well as the twisted humor; and I thought Elaine May's the most complete in terms of providing an inkling of what made the main characters tick beyond the "shtick", not to mention how pitch perfect Marlo Thomas was. Woody Allen's play was a riotous romp, although once the situation was established, much of the remaining dialogue was somewhat predictable to those who know Woody. Still, he always throws in something fresh, and the timing of the deliveries were perfect.. There were no awkward silences in the house, that's for sure.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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Mothermag
Dialogue tried to be clever and witty....which some of it was. Thought this was more of an "off Broadway" event rather than on Broadway.....not quite "big" enough in substance but had some bright and funny moments. Not much depth but rather "cute".
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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StatenIslanders
My wife and another couple joined me to see this play. We found the first two plays boring and the last one somewhat funny and well acted. Overall, not worth themoney.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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Obbydooby
Ethan Coen's was interesting and i mildly enjoyed, Elaine May's a little painful, although marla thomas was very good. Really loved Woody Allen's, he delivered the laughs in a night where i was wondering if it was really comedy.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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pcpayer
We went to see this show with trepidation because the reviews were all over the map. We liked the three authors and purchased our tickets way in advance. Really, the first play was not that bad . Just stop the nonsense and enjoy the show. The middle play was in reality sad but Marlo Thomas made in all worth while. The final play was just plain fun.We go to a lot of plays. Go have a good time and stop being such a snob!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Oct 22, 2011
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pottersfriend
My expectations would have been met if this were community theater or a repertory theater. The outstanding performance by Marlo Thomas is what I can recommend to others and is memorable for me. I will look for other opportunities to see her perform.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Oct 20, 2011
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Anonymous
The first piece by COEN was quite good and really not schtick-- It could of done without the dinner scene. The next two one act plays were so good for those of us who are of an age. Elaine May was able to get the part of the self-centered matron just right and Marlo Thomas was just fine in it. Woody Allen is back to his old stuff-- making fun of evrything Jewish and mothers in general-- You have to be open-minded and not mind a lot of screaming -- It's a laugh-ou-t loud event!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Oct 20, 2011
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Alan1975
Yes.. A "Bomb" has hit Broadway! Given the history of the talent involved this show is just a mistake of the first order. Shame on all those involved! The cast tries hard but the material that they are given to work with is sophmoric, insipid, and poor. Three one act plays which mainly suceed in putting many in the audience to sleep. The best of the worst is the last one by Woody Allen but the one liners fall flat and what could have been a funny experience falls way short. Kudo's to Ari Graynor who is the best in the cast. Shame on the producers who actually had the nerve to bring this show to Broadway and even more gall to actually open... All in all.. a MESS!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Oct 20, 2011
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PsychDoc007
Hard to describe how amateurish this was. Trite, cliche ridden and going nowhere are some of the descriptors that come to mind. Ughhh. I've seen better performances in high schools. Talk about trading on one's celebrity. Save your money.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Oct 20, 2011
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kharper55
Enjoyed all three one act plays. As the director says, each has a little bit different tone, and all are funny. Really enjoyed Honeymoon Hotel by Woody Allen. Thought Marlo Thomas was great in the second play, George is Dead. That one gave us a lot to think and talk about.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Oct 20, 2011
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sych
fluff,fluff,fluff coen playlet acceptable,elaine may's uneven and dated,marlo thomas excellent. would have thought woody allen could write comedy with one hand tied behind his back! must have had both hands bound and decided broad,uneven brush strokes could cover up little effort and less of a sense of humor ever. i worry he has lost it!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Oct 20, 2011
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menj
The acting was excellent, but the first two acts were boring , the third one was better, but nothing to write home about. I don't think this will go down as one of the better shows this season.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Oct 20, 2011
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Myraskis
Coen's play is a little weird like everything he does. Elaine May has some great characters That seem familiar to everyone & funny Lines. Woody Allen's was hysterical From beginning to end.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Oct 20, 2011
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TheBud
Very enjoyable set of shows. Woody's was the best but all three had great moments. While not a "Book of Mormon", Still a very enjoyable evening
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Oct 20, 2011
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Anonymous
Very mediocre...some laughs but old humor. Marlo was swell.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Oct 20, 2011
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Friendofcats
Talking Cure was great until the final scene with Larry's parents. Ethan Coen needed a good editor to advise him to stop when he was ahead. Elaine May's one-act likewise was wonderful until the final scene concerning Michael and Claire's marital problems. Ditto. Woody Allen was close to the quality of mediocre British comedy, but he overreached too many times.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Jan 7, 2012
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veff
3 one act plays, each with loads of laugh out loud moments, by the great comedic writers with an all star cast. A great evening of theater.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Jan 7, 2012
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Cmonki1
3 1 act plays the first is ok the 2nd is blah the 3 is Great all in all it is not worth it.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Jan 7, 2012
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volkswalker
The first play was good. The second play was not. The third play was worth coming to see, just by itself.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Jan 7, 2012
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artyj
The acting was good but the plays themselves were only fair. The Woody Allen play was the best of the three. The direction was not as tight as you would expect in a comedy, e.g. the timing was off.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Jan 7, 2012
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Anonymous
Relatively Speaking is, at times, not what it seems, with twists and turns throughout all 3 one-act plays. 'Talking Cure' by Ethan Coen starts out promising, but ends with the most vile of all characters ever created shrieking the most horrible words at each other. "George is Dead" by Elaine May is funny and poignant, especially when Marlo Thomas is speaking. She shines and carries the act along. The last act is classic Woody Allen and an absolute joy to watch. One can't wait for the next character to come through the door of the Starlite Motel. It is also really great to have a 'happy' ending in a show.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Jan 7, 2012
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Flossiegirl
Contrary to some critics, I loved all three plays. Of course "Honeymoon Motel" was the funniest, the others were just as good in their own right. Woody Allen is still the best!The first play, if you know of anyone in the business of social work, was spot on. The second play was funny and poignant. All of the actors were excellent in their roles.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Jan 7, 2012
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SaratogaSprings
Low points: Woody Allen's "Honeymoon Hotel" -- recycling 1950s jokes from the Catskills that were never that funny in the first place. High Points: "George is Dead" was very good (not great), the best of the three. Elaine May and Marlo Thomas created a genuinely interesting, funny, and tragic character. Best and funniest performance came from Danny Hoch, in both "Talking Cure" and "Honeymoon Hotel." I want to see him again in something else!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Jan 7, 2012
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LDA17
The 1st play (by Ethan Coen) wasn't that funny--it was just like his usual slow style, but not as clever. The topic was annoying (people who don't communicate with each other), and (did I say this already?) not funny. The 2nd play was Elaine May funny--not over the top, but it had it's good lines. Marlo Thomas did a very good job, and we laughed. The Woody Allen entry was worth waiting for. The ensemble and familiar cast did a great job in this clever, half slapstick comedy that needed their professional timing and delivery. Don't leave at intermission.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Jan 7, 2012
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DRN9
My husband and I saw this show with 2 other theater-savvy couples. The 6 of us agreed that Relatively Speaking was not worth the time and money. Marlo Thomas did a nice job with the Elaine May short, but otherwise the acting was mediocre and the writing was poor.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Sat, Jan 7, 2012
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NYCDiva77
Very entertaining, each act got progressively funnier.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Wed, Jan 4, 2012
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Anonymous
I laughed so hard my stomach hurt after I left! The last act by Woody Allen is hysterical.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Wed, Jan 4, 2012
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cwny
we've always known that elaine may is a genius, but i was never particularly interested in marlo thomas' work until this play: now i'm her absolutely devoted fan - she "nailed" the "george is dead" part! and the acting in woody allen's "honeymoon motel" is by-and-large superb - i want to see much more of julie kavner, steve guttenberg & john rothman!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Wed, Jan 4, 2012
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malkarivka
Each act was very different from the other. I loved them all, in unique ways. This was Broadway at its best. I saw it at the start of my New York vacation and it set the tone for the rest of the trip. Wonderful..laughing upon laughter.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Wed, Jan 4, 2012
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LuckyLucia
I felt that I was on the Cyclone all night, going up a small incline during "Talking Cure", falling off the cliff with "George is Dead" then reaching the pinnacle of laughter at the perfect farce, "Honeymoon Motel". If it wasn't for the fact that I am a huge Woody Allen Fan and really wanted to see his play I would have left during Elaine May's "George is Dead" which almost killed me and my husband! Boy am I glad we stayed for the full ride; it was worth it!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Wed, Jan 4, 2012
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EZ2Plse
I expected a lot more from the three artists involved and I was sadly disappointed. I am a very experienced theatre-goer!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Wed, Jan 4, 2012
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riobella
The first play evokes irritability as the therapist never really discovers the method and style needed to make progress with his patient. The second one left no impact worth reviewing. The third short, however had its moments of humor and surprise that proved quite entertaining. Too bad there wasn't enough substance there to have it stand alone as its own production!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Wed, Jan 4, 2012
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Anonymous
The biggest waste of 2 hours and 10 minutes I have ever experienced. Shame on all three writers, shame on the actors who don't know how to act for the stage (Grant Shaud, Steve Guttenberg specifically). Glad it's closing.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Wed, Jan 4, 2012
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Anonymous
I appreciated the writing, acting, and general art of the show, however there was so much demoralizing arguing that I left disheartened.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Wed, Jan 4, 2012
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Knap
Loved them all. Cast was great! Sorry it's closing so soon as I recommended to many people!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Wed, Jan 4, 2012
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rockaday
Enjoyed the first play. The mental patient was hysterical. Clever dialogue. The second play just OK. Marlo Thomas was terrific but the story line was not that interesting or funny. The last play was funny at times but why did all the actors think they have to yell every spoken line. I felt like they wanted to be loud to make sure we got all the jokes which were not very funny. Steve Gutenberg was fun.
Brooks Atkinson Theater - New York, NY - 12/30/2011
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beisenj
We thoroughly enjoyed our evening seeing the comedy "Relatively Speaking". I am not familiar with the writing of Elaine May or Ethan Coen but I can say that the play definitely has a Woody Allen flavor, both in humor and subject matter. All these acts deal with human behavior, some bordering on mental illness or at least severe neurosis. As with most comedies, the underlying issues are serious, but the way they are approached is funny. In this case, it was very funny. I really enjoyed seeing actors who are well known on stage. Marlo Thomas was very good, and with her blond wig, would have been unrecognizable to me if I hadn't know it was she. Julie Kavner was delightful as was Richard Libertini (who had the best line of show about atheism). I think the play would definitely be popular with New York audiences.
Brooks Atkinson Theater - New York, NY - 12/30/2011
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Anonymous
First 2 acts were slow and boring. The 3rd act ( Woody Allen's) was very funny All the performers were great
Brooks Atkinson Theater - New York, NY - 12/30/2011
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HugoZHackenbush
This trio of one act plays made for an enjoyable evening of theater. The first, Talking Cure was a bit somber but also amusing and well acted. The second, George is Dead was a bravura performance by Marlo Thomas and the rest of the cast. The third, Honeymoon Motel was typically outrageous Woody Allen reminiscent of his early movies like Bananas and Sleeper. It also followed a plot line mimicking his own love life to a significant degree. The evening built through the three plays and flew by too quickly. The use of several of the actors in more than one play was clever and gave us a chance to see them in other roles. My wife and I really had a fun time.
Brooks Atkinson Theater - New York, NY - 12/30/2011
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liahannah
Great show and we especially loved Caroline Aaron!
Brooks Atkinson Theater - New York, NY - 12/30/2011
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ChicagoVisitor
Right off the bat I would use the disclaimer I am a musical theater gal but purchased these for my other half. We both thought there was good writing and good performances in this night of 3 acts. However, we were not captivated by any of the acts. I do think it is definitely worth a viewing and I was most interested to hear Marlo Thomas share that the authors of each act do continue to visit the theater to see their words.
Brooks Atkinson Theater - New York, NY - 12/30/2011
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Hieronymous4
Comedies varied from ok to shockingly thin(Woody Allen). Talent onstaged varied from ok to "stay on TV." You can definitely do better...try a sitcom.
Brooks Atkinson Theater - New York, NY - 12/30/2011
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triathmon
It appears that the sequence of the plays was deliberate. Since Ethan's comic attempt was disappointing while Woody's play was up to the task and met anyone's expectation who is familiar of his large body of work I would rate the overall play as recommended.
Brooks Atkinson Theater - New York, NY - 12/30/2011
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Pezze
Relatively Speaking was hilarious and very enjoyable. We all enjoyed it especially the last group of entertainers in Honeymoon Hotel. The othe 2 vignettes were also funny and entertaining. I highly recommend this performance to anyone who enjoys live theater.
Brooks Atkinson Theater - New York, NY - 12/30/2011
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BarbS11
All three plays were really disappointing. Good performances but awful material!
Brooks Atkinson Theater - New York, NY - 12/30/2011
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LMcSpirit1
I purchased 4 tickets and took my best friend, her daughter and my daughter. We were looking forward to a fun night with lots of laughs. This play was horrible and we walked out after the first Act. I would never recommend this play to anyone, unless perhaps you didn't like those people and wanted them to waste a boat load of money, like I did. Worst play I have ever seen. As we left the theatre 2 of the employees apologized to us. That said enough. Awful, Awful Awful. I wish I could get a refund! Do not go see this show, unless you want to cry from spending too much money. So disappointing!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 13, 2012
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RRandJ
For some reason, my family, friends, and I usually wind up seeing deep, depressing plays around Christmas-time. This show was interesting and refreshingly funny. The three plays were very entertaining, and it was certainly interesting to see some very famous actors and familiar faces in new roles. The plays were quirky and had interesting little twists. I would recommended the show to anyone with a sense of humor.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 13, 2012
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lb8663
Woody Allen never disappoints me, but the art of comedy is challenging, and the actors efforts, while gallant, often fell short. Ethan Coen's play was pretty bad, and Elaine May's fell somewhere in between. All in all, not a very stimulating night at the theater.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 13, 2012
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BrdwyBaby
While I was thrilled to see many of the actors live (especially Marlo Thomas) and did laugh out loud many times in all three acts, I wasn't thrilled with the farcical story lines and the annoying characters. I went to NYC to see 4 plays in 3 days. Wanted to see "On a Clear Day" and "Other Desert Cities" again right after I saw them both. "Rel. Spkg." and "The Mountaintop (for comparison sake) were just not that enjoyable. I wouldn't recommend them. There are so many other great plays to see. Act 1: The prison scene was amusing. The dinner table scene - not so much. Act 2: Marlo Thomas's character was so pathetic and unlikeable, but she did a great job. Act 3: Guess I don't really like all Woody Allen angst. I would happily have plucked the rabbi character right out of the story line.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 13, 2012
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sarusan
3 one-act comedies written by terrific writers. Lines delivered by wonderful actors. Marlo Thomas was fantastic. The Woody Allen play was my favorite - very funny with an amazing cast.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 13, 2012
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Doug27
My wife and I had differing opinions. On Act 1, she gave it a thumbs down, I was neutral. On Act 2, we were both neutral and on Act 3, she was marginally thumbs up and I was definitely thumbs up. Woody Allen's act was clearly the high point for content, although Marlo Thomas was quite good.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 13, 2012
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perry62
The hilarity started in "Talking Cure", where the lines were sometimes blurred as to who was the patient and who was the doctor. Marlo Thomas in "George Is Dead" plays the aging child-wife of George, who we learn right off, is dead. Her manipulation of Carla, her former nanny's daughter, is priceless. By the time we arrive at the "Hpneymoon Hotel", we're primed for unstoppable laughter. This play delivers it. As the characters reveal who they really are, the audience doesn't stop laughing. This was truly a laugh-a-minute afternoon.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 13, 2012
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VSTUDIO
GREAT CAST! TERRIFIC WRITING! MARLO THOMAS WAS UNFORGETTABLE AND SO WAS RICHARD LIBERTINI! A SMART AND FUNNY SHOW!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 13, 2012
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dryankel
These 3 short plays are like 3 gems of short stories (I think that the Coen play started as a story). They are like 3 different pieces from a box of assorted fine chocolates. The Coen play is clever and builds some suspense to the surprise ending. The May play has a more serious theme. And the Allen play is just zany, like vintage Allen. I think I read that he wrote it long ago when he was funnier and allowed us into his absurd momentary fantasies... like the sight gag in "Take the Money and Run" in which he is caught after a prison escape and sentenced to 3 days solitary confinement with an insurance salesman who is talking even before the guards shut the door.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 13, 2012
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Anonymous
Fabulous show. Very funny. Excellent cast. Very Entertaining.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 13, 2012
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PolishGirl2012
The first play was awful. The story is weak & the jokes are lame. The second one was only interesting because of Marlo Thomas. The third, Honeymoon Hotel, by Woody Allen was funny but not great.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Jan 12, 2012
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gswc
Awful...simply awful. Last act made you laugh to alleviate the pain from the first two acts.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Jan 12, 2012
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gavrilli
I though the first act - Talking Cure, was not interesting at all. Acting was good. George is Dead was great although I would not actually call it a comedy. Most of it was sad. Marlo Thomas and the rest of the case were superb. Honeymoon Motel was hysterical. Typical Wood Allen. Case was great.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Jan 12, 2012
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Anonymous
Extremely enjoyable. Far more laughter than TV sitcoms . . . and it wasn't even canned.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Jan 12, 2012
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Shawmisters
The first act did not keep my attention. The second act was just annoying. The third act was just plain silly. After intermission, the couple sitting next to us did not return. The gentleman sitting behind us was asking, "What is so hilarious about this show?" To date, this is the most disappointing show we have seen. But we ended our evening enjoying a bite to eat over at Carmine's. Always satisfying.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Jan 12, 2012
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BettiBoop511
I didn't think it was as funny as people said it was. Although, I thought that it got funnier as the play went on. Cohen's act wasn't very funny at all, although it did have a funny moment or two. I thought it was very dark and too serious. May's act was pretty good, and Marlo Thomas was outstanding! What a natural! The best act was Woody Allen's. You were left laughing from the very beginning and was relatable to all ages. Overall, I don't think the tickets were worth the money and I wouldn't recommend others to pay the money to see it.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Jan 12, 2012
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Anonymous
The first act was poor - not sure where they were headed. Second act with Marlo Thomas was good - she did a great job. Third act was the best - the cast and story line by Woody Alan made the show - would have liked to of seen two more acts like this one.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Jan 12, 2012
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Anonymous
The first two plays felt decidedly unfinished. They need to be workshopped significantly. The last two were poorly directed with terrible blocking. The Woody Allen was funny with some good performances. There were too many moments when the actors were standing in front of each other or addressing the audience directly in ineffective ways. Not worth the price of admission.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Jan 12, 2012
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Buckmeister
The first two plays were dark comedies, while the 3rd...Allen's play...was pure Woody fun, although some of the lines fell flat with the audience. All of the performances were first rate.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Jan 12, 2012
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bucketlistcheck
The 3 one act plays were all good in their own way. All characters were very memorable. Hats off to Steve Guttenberg for a job well done!!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Thu, Jan 12, 2012
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idolxx
Loved it! Laughed my butt off!!! All three were very funny.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 6, 2012
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maggie
I said to myself, " Surely plays by Ethan Coen, Elaine May, and Woody Allen couldn't be as bad as the Times said!" I was wrong. They are worse! I would veto these if I were planning a season of non-union summer stock. I can't fathom why anyone thought they should be presented on Broadway. At least I only had to sit through them once. I can't imagine what it must be to try to act in them night after night!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 6, 2012
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Raftmaster
Three one acts, comedies supposedly. The funniest one is shown first, "The Talking Cure" and it sets up expectations for the two that follow. Unfortunately those expectatins are never realized. The Elaine May piece, "George Is Dead" is more sad than funny. While it's fun seeing Marlo Thomas in this, you can't help but wish she had a really juicy role to tackle. "George Is Dead" does not belong on a bill of comedies. The evening's final one act is another tired piece of Woody Allen schtick that features some dandy actors speaking trivial lines to no real purpose. Save your money.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 6, 2012
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lyrose
"Relatively Speaking" gives us three funny plays that elicit laughter in diverse ways. Ethan Coen's "Talking Cure" sears the jugular with a humorous linguistic sword. Elaine May's "George is Dead" touches the heart with sympathetic, yet amusing characters, while Woody Allen's "Honeymoon Motel" creates uncontrollable belly laughs with its send up of non-stop jokes and barbs. The audience is presented with a superb tasting menu that satiates as the TALENTED ensemble and director deliver 100%. BRAVO and THANK YOU!!!
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 6, 2012
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Anonymous
third act ( woody allen) was the funniest of the three
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 6, 2012
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Latinatrix
The writing, timing, and direction for the 3rd of the one-acts in "Relatively Spekaing" (Woody Allen's farce of a kidnapped bride to be) were well worth the wait. Ethan Coen's "Talking Cure" was good during the first half, but overdid the "Hitler" jokes in the second half. Elaine May's "George is Dead" was excellent, but creepy, leaving me with an uncomfortable feeling.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 6, 2012
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Joyologist
Amazingly humorous and real at the same time ! Excellent cast...
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 6, 2012
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frabel
Well, you cannot win them all. The one acts by Elaine May and Woodie Allen were terrific and very funny. The one by Ethan Coen was not quite as good, with few laughs and in the end, I did not understand what it was all about. I also thought the actor doing Larry overacted to distract from his character. It was really fun seeing many old favorite actors from stage and screen returning for parts in the the last two plays. They definitely chewed and chewed up the scenery, bringing lots of laughter. The audience before the start of the plays was abuzz with who was who and what they remembered them from years ago. ...she voiced Marge Simpson...he was in Police Academy...nice memories for many old timers in the audience. I only wondered why in his bio, Steve Guttenberg neglected to mention his movie, Can't Stop the Music, with Valerie Perrine and the Village People. What could be more hip at that time than roller skating down Broadway in the opening sequence. I even have it on DVD. Lots of laughs then and now. Keep up the good work all.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 6, 2012
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LittleShrub
Big disappointment considering the top-notch writers and director. Very few truly funny moments, did not meet my expectations at all.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 6, 2012
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Lipstick
Did not particularly care for Part 1. Really enjoyed Part 2 and readily identified with the nanny's daughter. Her whole life had been defined by her mother's job. Enjoyed Part 3 but did not care for the role of the Rabbi. Thought the scenario was very Woody Allen depicting his personal life into the play.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Fri, Jan 6, 2012
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kosyorkie
act 1 - very good writing - well acted act 2 - very disappointing if you're looking for humor - well acted - Marlo Thomas excellent act 3 - OUTSTANDING - Woody Allen at his best!! hilarious and well acted, saved the day!! cast - spot on - Danny Hoch - outrageously funny
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Mon, Dec 26, 2011
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Anonymous
Very funny! All three plays had us laughing..................
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Mon, Dec 26, 2011
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theatreholic
Three one act comedies. Unfortunately only the third one act comedy is actually funny. Don not run to the box office, run away to save yourself from a miserable time in the theatre.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Mon, Dec 26, 2011
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sprintsnail
Three of the best comedy writers on the planet, all personal favorites, can't fail to produce some brilliant, hilarious, poignant (Ms. May) lines, but exceedingly rarely in "Relatively Speaking".
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Mon, Dec 26, 2011
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Anonymous
Good, but, not as good as expected with the star power behind this 3 one act play.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Mon, Dec 26, 2011
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Anonymous
Third act was the best and "saved" the show. It seemed to lack "oomph"
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Mon, Dec 26, 2011
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TMJGOOD
Last Act by Woody Allen was funny, other two were not good at all. Acting was fine but performance lacked Broadway caliber.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Mon, Dec 26, 2011
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Ralphxx1952
The first two one act plays were unispiring and "George is Dead" was in absolutely poor taste. It was a Waste of marlo Thomas' skills as an actress Not worthy of Broadway or the admission charged for this . The only reason we (3 of us) stayed after intermission as the anticipation of the Woody Allen play. It was vintage Woody Allen and an excellent production. It should stand alone, off Broadway at one half the price.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Mon, Dec 26, 2011
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Anonymous
At a lower cost, I would have been more enthused. No new ground was broken here. I did enjoy the performances, for the most part.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Mon, Dec 26, 2011
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Joat
All three of these one-act comedies were great. Marlo Thomas does a superb job. Woody Allen's piece is wonderful in all the ways we've come to expect from him.
Brooks Atkinson Theatre - New York, NY - Mon, Dec 26, 2011
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